Over 1,000 players set to compete as AfriSportPro youth league kicks off Aug. 10

The AfriSportPro Youth League is set to kick off on August 10, with 72 under-19 teams and over 1,000 players participating across six Nigerian states in a bold initiative aimed at transforming grassroots football and empowering young talent.

Chairman of the league, Chukwuebuka Ugwu, announced the development during a press briefing in Abuja, describing the league as a platform for national unity, youth development, and international exposure. Currently running in Osun, FCT, Kaduna, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, and Imo, the league features a data-driven structure and international scouting support.

Ugwu highlighted the league’s partnership with Wyscout, a leading global football analytics platform, to ensure every match is captured with detailed performance data. This allows players to be tracked and scouted by local and international clubs in real-time.

Beyond football, the league integrates social impact programs, including anti-corruption campaigns in collaboration with the EFCC, and supports the Federal Government’s “Visit Nigeria” campaign to promote the nation’s cultural and tourism assets.

Each team will play 11 matches in a single round-robin format within their state, amounting to 66 matches per state. The top teams will advance to a one-week national knockout stage, completing a 12-week inaugural season designed to balance exposure with affordability.

Ugwu emphasized the league’s mission: “Talent isn’t our problem opportunity is. We’re changing that narrative by creating a system where players aren’t just playing, they’re being seen and given a real shot at something greater.”